Abstract: A parachute deployment system for use with an illuminating flare warhead propelled by a rocket motor. The system employs a compact two-stage parachute system which includes a main parachute arranged within a main parachute cover and a drogue parachute arranged within a drogue chute cover. The main parachute pack and the drogue parachute are configured to be positioned in a side-by-side, detached relationship within the warhead. An extraction line separably connects the drogue parachute pack to the rocket motor and a support line connects the drogue parachute pack to the main parachute pack such that upon separation of the rocket motor from the warhead, the drogue parachute pack is extracted from the warhead prior to extraction of the main parachute pack. Upon deployment of the drogue parachute, the drogue parachute cover remains attached to the extraction line and acts as a deflector, inducing radial forces which act upon the rocket motor to prevent it from colliding into the warhead.

Abstract: A combustible ignition system for use in an illuminating flare warhead. The ignition system includes a pickup charge positioned contiguous the separation charge of the ignition initiator. The pickup charge is positioned such that the firing of the separation charge triggers combustion of the pickup charge. The pickup charge extends to a combustible train which comprises a continuous thin-layer explosive composition positioned within a plastic tubing. The firing of the pickup charge creates sufficient shock that the combustible train is detonated. The combustible train extends along the flare casing adjacent the parachute system and the illuminant. At the head end of the warhead, the explosive train connects to an output charge. The explosive shock of the explosive train is sufficient to detonate the output charge. The output charge transfers the combustion to a BKNO.sub.3 pellet basket within the illuminant igniter of the warhead.